Let’s create 30 jobs in 30 days

AN innovative project to generate and increase Aboriginal employment in the Shoalhaven has been launched.

GREAT INITIATIVE: Chair of the Prime Minister’s Indigenous Advisory Council Warren Mundine launches the 30/30 Jobs Campaign in front of local businesspeople at a special breakfast at Destiny’s Restaurant at the Bomaderry TAFE Campus.

The 30/30 Jobs Campaign aims to find jobs for 30 Aboriginal people in 30 days across a range of sectors.

Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Indigenous Advisory Council Warren Mundine officially launched the campaign on Friday, in front of local businesspeople at a special breakfast at Destiny’s Restaurant at the Bomaderry TAFE Campus.

Mr Mundine said the project, devised by Habitat Personnel in conjunction with the Shoalhaven Business Chamber, was an exciting initiative.

“There is no greater thing in the world than providing someone with a job,” Mr Mundine said.

“This is such an important project for all of us.

“I believe it is something we can achieve – something that will have the country heading in the right direction.”

Habitat Personnel has placed 110 people in full-time jobs in the past three months, with managing director Gerry Moore believing the 30 jobs in 30 days is an achievable goal.

“Providing opportunities for Aboriginal participation in the workforce, in quality jobs, will be one of the most important ways the community can contribute to closing the gap on Aboriginal disadvantage,” Mr Moore said.

“In the Shoalhaven, only about 50 per cent of Aboriginal people participate in the workforce, with an unemployment rate of 22 per cent.

“The position of younger people is even worse with a slightly lower participation rate and a much higher unemployment rate of 37 per cent.

“We cannot just let Aboriginal job-seekers, particularly young people, slip through the cracks.

“We see this campaign to find 30 jobs in 30 days as a positive step towards reducing unemployment.

“With so many projects coming on line in the Shoalhaven now is the time to change the present situation.”